In the early hours of a quiet Sunday morning, the tight-knit community of West Belfast was shattered by a devastating act of violence that claimed the life of a local taxi driver. The incident, which unfolded in the Bell Steel Manor area of Dunmurry, has left residents grappling with grief and disbelief, as the echoes of gunfire continue to reverberate through the streets. SDLP Councillor Paul Doherty, a steadfast voice for the people of West Belfast, captured the collective sentiment: “There is a great deal of shock and sadness in our community this morning at this news.”
The tragedy occurred shortly after 10:30 AM on February 23, 2025, when emergency services received a distressing call about a shooting. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) swiftly dispatched a rapid response paramedic and an emergency ambulance crew to the scene. They found a man, identified as a taxi driver, gravely injured. Despite their efforts to stabilize him, the victim was rushed to the Royal Victoria Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries. The loss of life has cast a somber shadow over the community, with residents mourning not only the man’s death but the senseless violence that stole him from his loved ones.
Councillor Paul Doherty, a lifelong advocate for West Belfast and founder of the community charity Foodstock, condemned the shooting as “a disgraceful act of violence that will have caused serious worry in this community.” His words reflect the deep unease felt by locals in Poleglass, a bustling area where families, children, and residents go about their daily lives—visiting shops, attending sports, or simply walking the streets. The brutality of the attack, carried out in broad daylight, has heightened fears and underscored the urgent need for peace in a community that has long strived to overcome its challenges.
Sinn Féin MLA Danny Baker, who was among the first to respond at the scene, echoed Doherty’s sentiments, branding the attack as “reckless” and emphasizing that “there is no justification for guns on our streets.” Baker, who spent the day engaging with police and community representatives, expressed his hopes for the victim’s recovery before the tragic outcome was confirmed. His call for anyone with information to come forward to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) reflects a shared determination to seek justice and prevent further violence.
The PSNI’s armed response teams descended on the area, maintaining a strong presence as they began their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities are appealing to the public for any details that could help piece together the events leading to this heartbreaking loss. The incident has reignited conversations about safety and the persistent challenges of violence in certain areas, with community leaders like Doherty urging for collective action to address these issues.
Paul Doherty, a figure deeply rooted in West Belfast’s struggles and triumphs, knows all too well the weight of community hardship. As a councillor and the Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, he has dedicated his life to tackling poverty, supporting families, and fostering solidarity through initiatives like Foodstock, which provides food, school uniforms, and support to hundreds of households weekly. His response to this tragedy is not just political but deeply personal, shaped by his upbringing in Turf Lodge and his commitment to giving voice to those who feel unheard. “This is a shocking incident where a man has lost his life, and the local community has been left reeling,” Doherty said. “My thoughts are with the loved ones of the deceased and everyone who has been affected by this incident.”
As West Belfast mourns, the community’s resilience shines through. Vigils and quiet conversations among neighbors reflect a shared resolve to heal and demand better. The loss of this man—a neighbor, a worker, a life—has left an indelible mark, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the work still needed to ensure safety and hope for all. In the face of such sorrow, leaders like Doherty and Baker are calling for unity, urging residents to stand together against violence and to honor the memory of the fallen by building a stronger, safer future.
